United States neoclassical composer (1894-1976)
"No, a piston is not the name of that American neoclassical composer; you are thinking of Piston."
A solid disk or cylinder that fits inside a hollow cylinder, and moves under pressure (as in an engine) or displaces fluid (as in a pump)
"The piston moved up and down inside the cylinder to compress the fuel mixture before igniting it."
In plain English: A piston is a strong metal block that moves up and down inside an engine to help it run.
"The mechanic explained how the piston moves up and down inside the engine cylinder to create power."
Usage: The term is almost exclusively used as a noun referring to the mechanical component; avoid using it as a verb unless describing something moving with distinct, repetitive up-and-down strokes. Do not confuse this specific engineering part with generic terms for any cylindrical object or plunger.
To move up and down or in and out like a piston.
"The old washing machine's drum began to piston violently as it tried to spin at high speed."
In plain English: To piston means to push something back and forth inside a cylinder, usually as part of an engine's movement.
"The old engine began to piston loudly when I hit the gas pedal."
A surname.
"My neighbor, Mr. Piston, is a skilled carpenter who lives on Elm Street."
The word entered English from French as piston. It originally referred to a plug or stopper used to seal openings before taking on its modern mechanical meaning.